Global framework brings arts and cultural engagement into mainstream global health
Researchers have developed a roadmap for integrating the arts across health and well-being systems globally, from population health and prevention to community pathways and clinical care. Based on a wealth of international evidence, the roadmap is outlined in the Jameel Arts & Health Lab–Lancet Global Collection on Arts and Health.
A groundbreaking roadmap from researchers at the Global Brain Health Institute and the Jameel Arts & Health Lab seeks to weave arts and cultural engagement into the core of global health systems. The papers, published in The Lancet, argue that music, dance, visual arts, theater and other cultural activities can benefit mental, physical and social well-being throughout the lifespan.
Professor Agustín Ibáñez, co-author of the landmark papers, emphasizes that arts engagement is transitioning from being an optional supplement to health to a fundamental component of medical frameworks addressing prevention, treatment and care. Integrating the arts into public health, community pathways and clinical services is seen as crucial for a holistic approach to human health.
The researchers stress that arts engagement should be recognized as a health-enhancing behavior, akin to physical activity, diet and sleep. However, successful implementation must be culturally sensitive and locally tailored. Recognizing the role of arts and culture in health is particularly vital for global brain health, as these disciplines are integral to the complex interplay of biological, psychological, social and cultural factors shaping overall well-being.
The collection will be unveiled at the Healing Arts at UNGA in New York during the 2026 United Nations General Assembly.
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